Our client is seeking an experienced manager responsible for driving cross-functional innovation programs, managing open innovation frameworks, and delivering high-impact, tech-enabled solutions from concept to execution.

Responsibilities

• Lead the planning, execution, and monitoring of innovation programs, ensuring adherence to strategy, timelines, budgets, processes and quality standards.

• Develop and maintain comprehensive project plans, including scope definition, resource allocation, risk assessment, and communication strategies

• Utilize and support team in project management methodologies application (e.g., Agile, Waterfall, hybrid) to ensure efficient project delivery.

• Proactively address potential roadblocks.

• Track and report on project progress, providing regular updates to senior management and stakeholders based on standard communication support and dashboard with relevant KPI.

• Contribute to the development and implementation of the company's innovation business system, particularly with the open innovation framework.

• Develop and manage the innovation pipeline, timelines and resources, ensuring a consistent flow of high-potential projects.

• Oversee the prototyping, testing and piloting of new products, solutions and services. Support leader and entrapreneurs to structure the project (Scope, schedule, budget, ROI) and get Station / funding approval.

• Secure adherence of existing processes

• Develop and implement best practices for innovation program management.

• Identify and implement process improvements to enhance efficiency and effectiveness.

• Stay abreast of industry trends and best practices in innovation management and open innovation framework.

Requirements

• Fluent in English (written and spoken).

• Bachelor's degree in Business, Engineering, Science, or a related field.

• Minimum 8 years of experience in program/project management.

• Proven success in managing complex, cross-functional innovation programs.

• Experience with open innovation and external technology partnerships.

• Background in systems engineering or experience working with/for a system integrator.

• Proficient in project management methodologies (Agile, Waterfall, or hybrid).

• PMP or equivalent project management certification.

• Experience managing project budgets, timelines, and resources.

• Strong analytical and structured problem-solving skills.

• Excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills.

• Industry experience in one or more areas: industrial automation, manufacturing.

• Familiarity with startup ecosystems and early-stage innovation.

Nice-to-Have

• Experience in consulting or business development.

• Hands-on experience in innovation management or product innovation.

• Exposure to computer vision, robotics, or digital/data platform development.

• Interest or background in the railway industry.

• Entrepreneurial mindset with a business-oriented approach to innovation.

Key Competencies & Soft Skills

• Strong leadership and stakeholder engagement skills.

• Ability to influence and guide cross-functional teams without formal authority.

• Technically savvy with the ability to bridge business and technology.

• Comfortable with multidisciplinary and international collaboration.

• Demonstrated process ownership and commitment to Quality, Cost, and Delivery (QCD).

• High adaptability and resilience in navigating ambiguity and change.